Innovative Quantum-Safe Bitcoin Implementation

QSBitcoin represents a breakthrough in quantum-resistant cryptocurrency design, implementing NIST-standardized algorithms through an elegant soft fork of Bitcoin Core with unified opcodes.

Unified Opcode Architecture

QSBitcoin's most significant innovation is the unified opcode design, reducing complexity while maximizing extensibility:

  • Just 2 Opcodes: OP_CHECKSIG_EX (0xb3) and OP_CHECKSIGVERIFY_EX (0xb4) handle all quantum signatures
  • Algorithm Agnostic: The algorithm is identified by the first byte of signature data, not the opcode
  • Future Extensible: New quantum algorithms can be added without requiring new opcodes
  • Elegant Design: Minimizes consensus changes while maximizing flexibility

This design allows QSBitcoin to support multiple quantum algorithms (ML-DSA, SLH-DSA) and future algorithms without consensus changes.

🔐

NIST-Standardized Algorithms

QSBitcoin implements only NIST-standardized post-quantum algorithms, ensuring maximum security and compliance:

  • ML-DSA-65: Module-Lattice based, optimal for everyday transactions
  • SLH-DSA-192f: Hash-based, maximum security for cold storage
  • NIST Level 3 Security: Both algorithms provide 192-bit classical security
  • Proven Security: Years of cryptanalysis by the global cryptographic community

By using only standardized algorithms, QSBitcoin ensures compatibility with future quantum-safe infrastructure and regulatory compliance.

Soft Fork Implementation

QSBitcoin's soft fork approach preserves the Bitcoin network while adding quantum resistance:

  • Full Backward Compatibility: Non-upgraded nodes see quantum transactions as valid
  • Same Blockchain: No altcoin creation - enhances Bitcoin directly
  • Gradual Migration: Users switch to quantum addresses at their own pace
  • Network Effects Preserved: All Bitcoin infrastructure continues to work

This approach respects Bitcoin's conservative philosophy while providing essential quantum protection.

🔄

Technical Innovations

Feature Traditional Approach QSBitcoin Innovation Benefit
Opcodes One opcode per algorithm Unified opcodes with algorithm ID Extensibility without consensus changes
Weight Calculation Fixed 4x for all witness data 3x for ML-DSA, 2x for SLH-DSA Reflects actual validation costs
Address Format New address types needed Standard P2WSH (bc1q...) Privacy and compatibility
Key Management HD derivation assumed Non-copyable, move-only keys Quantum key security
Fee Structure No adoption incentives Standard fees based on size Fair resource-based pricing
Push Size Limit 520 bytes maximum Bypassed for quantum data Supports large signatures

Implementation Timeline

June 2025: Core Implementation

Completed quantum key infrastructure, signature verification, and initial wallet integration with unified opcode design.

July 2025: Core Features Working

Core quantum features operational. Quantum addresses can generate, receive, and spend funds on testnet/regtest. Comprehensive test suite in place.

July 2, 2025: Enhanced Compatibility

Fixed manual UTXO selection and PSBT support. Enhanced InferDescriptor to parse quantum witness scripts correctly.

Current: Testnet Active

Active development continues on testnet and regtest networks. Awaiting further testing and community consensus for mainnet activation.

Why QSBitcoin's Approach Matters

Preserves Bitcoin's Network Effect

By implementing as a soft fork rather than creating an altcoin, QSBitcoin enhances Bitcoin without fragmenting the ecosystem. All existing infrastructure, exchanges, and services continue to work.

Respects User Choice

No forced migration means users control their own timeline for adopting quantum-safe addresses. ECDSA addresses continue to function, allowing gradual transition.

Future-Proof Design

The unified opcode architecture means new quantum algorithms can be added as they're standardized, without requiring additional consensus changes.

Practical Implementation

Fee discounts and optimized weight calculations make quantum transactions economically viable, encouraging adoption while maintaining network sustainability.

Join the Quantum-Safe Revolution

QSBitcoin is open source and welcomes contributions. Help us build the quantum-safe future of Bitcoin.